Candidate Spotlight: Breckenridge for Glen Carbon trustee

Published
12:00 am CDT, Thursday, April 2, 2015

GLEN CARBON — Ross Breckenridge is on the April 7 ballot for the Glen Carbon Board of Trustees.

Breckenridge has earned a Bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in mass communications from SIUE. He currently works as an administration manager at the Illinois Department of Transportation.

Breckenridge took the time to answer some questions for the Telegraph regarding his candidacy in the upcoming election. Answers were emailed in and have not been altered by the Telegraph. All candidates were given the same list of questions.

Why are you running?

I take pride in helping my neighbors communicate with their elected officials to share ideas and get things done. Great schools, thriving businesses, and friendly neighbors — these things are the foundation of this village. I am running for re-election because I am committed to making sure our community remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family.

What qualifies you for this office? Do you see yourself as more or less qualified than your opponent(s), and if so, why?

I have a proven history of achieving results and I will continue that commitment to the village as an engaged and responsive trustee. As a trustee, I have been instrumental in solving major drainage issues across the village and other infrastructure challenges. I am also a strong advocate for economic development that attracts local investment without compromising Glen Carbon’s heritage.

If not an incumbent, what would you do differently than the current officeholder did during his or her term? If an incumbent, what are your most significant accomplishments during your term(s)?

- Advocated for the completion of a village-wide drainage analysis resulting in the resolution of major drainage issues

- “Complete Streets”, a comprehensive tool that takes pedestrian traffic in to account.

Is there any particular issue that is important to you in running for this position?

The most crucial issues facing Glen Carbon are ensuring smart and fair growth and maintaining a high level of service to residents at the lowest possible cost.

Do you have any priorities or initiatives you would like to work toward if elected? Is there anything especially important to your constituency that you would like to see happen?

The village will be making some important infrastructure decisions in the near future. We must ensure that we balance short- and long-term needs, financial sustainability, and our community identity as we make these critical decisions.

Any other issues you would like to discuss in this space? (Less than 40 words)

I have an open-door policy and welcome all questions, concerns, or discussion about our village. Residents can contact me anytime at (618) 792-0847, rbreckenridge@glen-carbon.il.us or on my Trustee Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/RossBreckenridge.